Based on years of experience in different fields, we have come to a conclusion that in order to excel in your career, first you need to master the art of networking. Certainly, success in nearly every aspect of life comes down to your ability to build meaningful relationships – both personal and professional. Here, we provide some helpful networking tips for artists to generate new opportunities and expand your art career.
1. Attend events
Focus on art news within your area and around the world. Attend art exhibitions, art conferences and other networking events for artists. Keep attending until you make yourself a familiar face!
“The richest people in the world look for and build networks, everyone else looks for work. Marinate on that for a minute.” — Robert T. Kiyosaki
2. Business card
Perfect your business card and always bring them with you. A stack of them! Hand out to interested people. It is an easy and professional way for them to contact you.
3. Present yourself
Prepare a short and attractive introduction about yourself. When asked “what do you do?” – Talk about what makes your art difference, what is your inspiration, where do you see yourself heading, etc. Check out this beautiful story of how this artist seizes every opportunity to express himself.
4. Offer support
Create relationship based on goodwill and positive interactions. Offer resources, tips and supports to other fellow artists. Because by helping others, you are actually helping yourself.
“You can have everything in life you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want” — Zig Ziglar
5. Look to connect
Look to connect, not to sell. Focus on forming a genuine connection with people. Ask questions about who they are, what they do, their interests, etc. People are looking to see if they can relate to you.
6. Follow up
Get business cards from everyone you meet. Jot notes about them because you will be following up later. Send an email or a text – include the context of the meeting, Set up a future appointment.
7. Social media
Combining online networking with face-to-face meetings will dramatically extend your reach. Build your social media or join the art community. Follow people whose work you admire. Strike up a conversation. Comment on one of their posts, or reach out directly to say hello. Social media marketing for artists is a crucial factor to succeed in this era. Not to mention a good copywriting of your works.
8. Relax & smile
Finally, remember to just relax and smile! There are always full of endless possibilities by meeting new people. Even if you get a ‘NO”, it only means Next Opportunity. And do not afraid to FAIL, because this is only the First Attempt In Learning. If you are a self-taught artist and feel isolated from the art community, we have got your back. Here are 5 tips for self-taught artists which can help you along the journey.
A bonus networking tips for you
The art of networking is a lot like nutrition and fitness: we know what to do, the hard part is making it a top priority. So, do not read one more line. Instead, start growing the right relationships today so you can become a better networker tomorrow!
It takes times to become a natural networker, but when there is a will, there is a way. Spend a few minutes or hours each day by applying the tips above. You will be amazed at how quickly your network will return the favour. Thanks us later 🙂
Still feeling confused or need more information? Talk to one of our Art Marketing Consultant and we will guide you through the mist.
Explore more interesting stories on our Facebook, Instagram and YouTube!
